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1. What are special assessments?

Special assessments, sometimes called non-ad valorem assessments, provide a revenue equity tool for cities and counties to fund capital projects and essential services such as stormwater that specifically benefit property, or relieve a burden caused by property.

2. What is the purpose of the stormwater special assessment?

The purpose of the stormwater special assessment is to provide funding for the City of St Pete Beach to obtain necessary data for all properties in the City and establish a focused stormwater program in order to make sure a fair and equitable rate structure is put in place to meet the City’s National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements and to maintain, repair and improve the stormwater runoff collection system and thereby reduce flooding and protect the environment.

3. Why does the City need a stormwater special assessment now?

The City, like every other local government in Florida, has tightened its belt and is looking for an equitable and efficient way to pay for establishing its stormwater utility or program while not raising the ad valorem millage or cutting other essential services.

4. Can the money raised from the stormwater special assessment be used for other expenditures unrelated to stormwater?

Absolutely not. One of the benefits of the stormwater special assessment is that all money received must be used specifically for establishing the stormwater program and related services and nothing else. As a result, all property owners are assured their money is being used only for stormwater matters.

5. Why do we need to establish a stormwater program or utility?

Many cities have a stormwater utility or program to ensure a dedicated funding source is in place to properly operate and maintain the stormwater collection system and provide related essential municipal services. Having such a dedicated funding source may also make the City eligible for state or federal grants. Also, much of the City of St Pete Beach’s stormwater collection system is outdated, ineffective, or nearing the end of its lifespan and a significant investment is needed to maintain, repair and improve it. This program will provide a foundation and data to fairly distribute these costs in years to come.

6. Where can I get more information regarding the City’s stormwater collection system?

An extensive presentation was done for City Commission on August 11, 2009

7. Who should I contact if I have more questions?

Feel free to contact the Public Works Department at 727-363-9243 or email the Public Works Department. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.